Toronto: The Government of Canada has made a significant policy shift by suspending the issuance of 10-year multiple-entry tourist visas. This move could create challenges for individuals looking to travel to Canada, as it changes the flexibility previously afforded to travelers.
Under the new guidelines, immigration officers now have discretionary power to determine whether to issue single-entry or multiple-entry visas and to decide on the duration of the visa. Previously, the maximum validity for these visas was either 10 years or until the expiration of the traveler’s documents or biometrics.
Political Context Behind the Policy Change
This policy adjustment appears to be influenced by the political pressures faced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is contending with issues such as housing shortages, high living costs, and a dip in approval ratings. In response to public discontent, Trudeau has announced that his government will be curtailing both temporary and permanent immigration numbers.
Last month, Immigration Minister Marc Miller acknowledged that the Canadian government should have acted sooner to manage the flow of temporary immigration, which has become a contributing factor to the housing crisis. The immigration department clarified that those holding a multiple-entry visa would still be allowed to enter Canada as needed during the visa’s validity period.
U.S. Support in India-Canada Relations: Trump’s Potential Role
In the ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, Dr. Sudhir Parikh, a prominent Indian-American community leader, discussed potential scenarios should former President Donald Trump win the upcoming U.S. presidential election. Parikh highlighted the role the U.S. could play in resolving the current India-Canada diplomatic standoff, emphasizing the support Trump has from the Indian-American community.
Representing “Hindus for Trump” and other South Asian Republican groups, Parikh noted that nearly half of the Indian-American community aligns with Republican ideals and agendas. Parikh stated that during discussions on India-Canada relations, Trump pledged that if elected, he would work towards resolving the conflict between the Canadian and Indian governments, thus aiding in stabilizing diplomatic relations.
This update comes amid ongoing diplomatic strain between Canada and India, further highlighting the importance of strategic international alliances and interventions.
